Popular Cheer-Up Songs: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]

Good TimeOwl City & Carly Rae Jepsen41rank/position

Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time (Official Video)

This song features a refreshing summer electro-pop sound that resonates pleasantly.

The duet between OWL CITY, the solo project of American musician Adam Young, and Canadian singer Carly Rae Jepsen blends beautifully, creating a bright atmosphere.

Conveying the importance of enjoying moments without trying too hard, the track was released in June 2012 and received major acclaim, especially in North America.

It reached No.

8 on the U.S.

Billboard chart and sold over one million copies.

With its exhilarating melody and positive lyrics, it helps refresh the mind.

It’s perfect as background music for school festivals and events, naturally lifting the spirits of those who listen.

TreasureBruno Mars42rank/position

Bruno Mars – Treasure (Official Music Video)

This is a cheer song by Bruno Mars, featuring a melodious track infused with a dancer-like flair, delivering a highly sophisticated finish.

It enhances a glamorous mood and offers a smooth vibe that feels perfect for listening in September.

Don’t Stop Believin’Journey43rank/position

Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’ (Official Audio)

When the New Year arrives, it’s natural to feel a vague sense of unease alongside your hopes and expectations.

In those moments, music that urges you to “never stop believing,” even in difficult times, can be a powerful ally.

Formed in 1973 and still going strong despite multiple lineup changes and hiatuses, the American rock band Journey released this classic track as a single in 1981, from their seminal album Escape.

Its lyrics—portraying a girl leaving a small town to chase her dreams and a young man smoldering in the city, each boarding a midnight train toward the future—carry a universality that lets people of all walks of life see themselves in the story.

From the memorable piano intro to the gradually building ensemble, and finally the climactic, explosive chorus of the title phrase, it’s absolutely breathtaking.

How about starting the new year with this song to give you courage?

Eye Of The TigerSurvivor44rank/position

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

Formed in Chicago and a driving force in the 1980s rock scene, Survivor delivered a signature song that channels razor-sharp focus like a tiger stalking its prey and an indomitable will to rise from adversity.

With searing, soul-stirring vocals and an unforgettable opening guitar riff, just a listen is enough to flood you with adrenaline.

Created as the theme song for the film Rocky III and released in May 1982, it dominated the U.S.

charts at No.

1 and achieved worldwide success, including a Grammy win.

It’s the perfect track to power you up before a must-win showdown or during training that pushes you to your limits.

Don’t Worry Be HappyBobby McFerrin45rank/position

Bobby McFerrin – Don’t Worry Be Happy (Official Music Video)

“Don’t worry, be happy”—a simple yet powerful message lies at the heart of Bobby McFerrin’s signature song.

Released in July 1988, this a cappella track topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won three Grammy Awards, becoming a global sensation.

It was also featured on the soundtrack of the film Cocktail, which brought it even more attention.

With its light, upbeat feel infused with reggae and jazz elements, it’s sure to soothe the hearts of students burdened with daily worries.

It teaches the importance of staying positive in the face of challenges—a song truly worthy of being called an anthem for test-takers.